Link: Microsoft unveils a data center design that uses zero water for cooling, down from the 125M+ liters per year a typical center uses, rolling out from August 2024 (Dina Bass/Bloomberg)

Microsoft Corp. has introduced a new data center design that consumes zero water for cooling servers and chips. This innovative system will help mitigate the environmental impact of the company's expanding infrastructure required for artificial intelligence services.

The new facilities, launching in hot regions like Arizona and Texas, will not require fresh water for cooling. Instead, they utilize a closed-loop system that recycles water introduced during construction.

Despite the new technology, basic amenities at these data centers, such as bathrooms and kitchens, will still need fresh water. Microsoft's move addresses the critical need for water conservation in these arid locations.

Microsoft aims to implement these water-saving technologies in upcoming projects in Phoenix and Mount Pleasant by 2026. The initiative responds to the increasing demands for energy and resources due to AI-driven services expansion.

While the new data centers feature cutting-edge technology, Microsoft's existing facilities will continue to operate with a mix of older cooling technologies. The company invested over $50 billion in data center construction last fiscal year to support this growth.

 #

--

Yoooo, this is a quick note on a link that made me go, WTF? Find all past links here.